Could the managers of the Hidden Woods Apartments complex be held accountable for a body found inside a car on their property?
Police found a 25-year-old man dead inside a car at the Hidden Woods Apartments complex on the 4600 block of Glenwood road. The victim was killed by a gunshot wound and police say the investigation is ongoing. Police have not given any statements regarding the motive of the killing, but they did say that the shooting took place inside the car. An individual informed one of the news outlets that he had heard four or five gunshots that night near the scene of the crime. The name of the victim has not been released by the authorities.
When property owners ignore obvious criminal behavior and fail to take efforts to keep control of who has access to their property, they may be creating an environment that invites additional crime. Under Georgia law, property owners may be held liable if they do not take reasonable measures to prevent foreseeable crimes.
Online reviews discuss the culture of crime and gunplay at the property. One resident complains that criminals “hang outside and shoot at night or in the day.” Another resident complains that contractors threw away their personal possessions and the agents of management stopped communicating with them after their “ceiling fell.” A resident complains that management doesn’t care if people break into apartments as long as rent is paid. Another website details similar complaints, including frequent gunfire noting, “they are always shooting.” Another urges potential residents that “this place is not safe for kids.”
Property managers are required by law to take reasonable measures to prevent foreseeable crimes. It is up to the families of victims of violent crime to stand up to property owners and demand accountability in a court of law. If we can compel landlords to improve security on their properties, then we can help Make Atlanta Safe, one community at a time.